Parental Alienation Awareness Day

I don't normally post on the weekends, but today (the 25th) is Parental Alienation Awareness Day. Some of you may not be aware of what Parental Alienation is so I've included a short, forty-second video at the end of this post to help explain it little better. Parental Alienation, or Hostile Aggressive Parenting as it's also referred to, is a form of child abuse where a child's relationship with another parent (usually in a divorce situation) is intentionally interfered with. It's very slippery in terms of diagnoses, and can range from mild (badmouthing the other parent) to extreme (completely cutting off the other parent). But in any case, the effects are always damaging to the child regardless to the amount, and it's important to keep in mind that the child is the victim, not the alienated parent.

For many regular readers of the Lunchbox, you know my own situation and have read my earlier posts concerning parental alienation and my sons. For a while I used to tell myself that maybe I was just being overly dramatic? That it was in my head and I wanted people to feel sorry for me? But in educating myself I learned this wasn't just a head game or pity party; it was real. Over time my situation has improved, but there are many others out there who cannot say the same.

If you or someone you know has questions about Parental Alienation visit the Parental Alienation Awareness Organization website. There you will find details, links and articles on the subject as well as a list of family activities planned around the globe (and possibly your city). Find out how you can help. Thanks for taking the time.